GIS enables students to geo-reference multiple data sets creating layers. This essentially becomes a vertical profile of data, information, photographs etc. that when viewed as a body of information can present a fairly comprehensive view of that location. Based on data associated with latitude and longitude, students now have the ability to examine geo-referenced data sets derived on Earth, and from satellite instruments in orbit, thus enabling investigators to look from top down (Space to Earth) or from the bottom up (Earth to Space). Using the SEES Model students can line-up multiple data sets for the purpose of building a comprehensive model. In addition, using the SEES Model, i.e. multiple geo-referenced data sets, promotes examining the Earth as a System. This exercise will create such a model through the use of an Earth-based data set, i.e. NOAA Buoy data, and space-based data using the MY NASA DATA LAS Oceans microset. Google Earth will be used as the viewing platform to look at the correlation of data.

Intended for grade levels:

High (9-12)

Type of resource:

For the classroom:

Computer activity

Lesson plan

Subject:

Geographical Sciences:

Physical geography

Ocean Sciences:

Physical oceanography

Technology

Technical requirements:

No specific technical requirements, just a browser required

Cost / Copyright:

No cost

This product is free and clear for general use.

DLESE Catalog ID:MYND-000-000-000-090

Educational standards:

National Science Education Standards (NSES):

9-12:

A - Science as inquiry:

Abilities necessary to do scientific inquiry

National Geography Standards:

The world in spatial terms:

How to use maps and other geographic representations, tools, and technologies to acquire, process, and report information